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Dayton Music Insider Top Pick: The 14th Annual HoliDayton Showcase

As we go into our last weekend of the year, it’s a great time to reflect upon what’s been achieved during the last spin around the sun. As a community, we can certainly be proud of the dynamic and diverse music scene that continues to blossom in Dayton.

As with years prior, there will be two stages of performances alternating throughout the evening, so you’ll be rockin’ all night long! Don’t miss this special showcase on Friday December 30th starting at 8pm. $7 cover. 21+

One of Dayton’s most beloved local bands is back at one of Dayton’s most beloved bars: Puzzle of Light at Trolley Stop. Always a great evening of entertainment with this talented ensemble! 9:30pm show. $5 cover. 21+

For my jam band friends, check out Magnolia Supernova, a group that’s relatively new to the Dayton music scene. They will be performing at Oregon Express this evening, and definitely worth checking out. Music usually gets going around 9:30pm. $5 cover. 21+

Swiss born Jazz pianist and composer, Alex Bugnon is in town and performing at Gilly’s Jazz. What a fantastic opportunity to see one of the very best in contemporary Jazz music. Two shows, one at 7pm and the other at 10pm. $25 admission.

Prohibition was repealed in December of 1933, and in some corners of the country, that anniversary is still celebrated. Join in the fun at Blue Note Bistro’s End of Prohibition Party, which features Dean Simms and “The Satchmo Show.” Please do call ahead to reserve your space, as last time he performed it was standing room only: 937-247-3000. Doors 5pm. Show 8:30pm. 1920-1930’s attire encouraged!

Saturday December 31st

Looking for a classy way to ring in the New Year? The Dayton Performing Arts Alliance presents their annual New Year’s Eve event, which ends at 10pm, so there is plenty of time to get to other parties and shows that may have your interest. This concert, entitled “American Vistas” celebrates the vitality and diversity of our nation through a magical collaboration of the Dayton Philharmonic, Opera and Ballet companies. There will appetizers, sweets, and champagne at intermission, with a fantastic balloon drop to end the evening. Tickets start at $25. 8-10pm.

Rock and jam band fans will be flocking to Oddbody’s for one of the biggest parties of the year: the epic Glostik Willy New Year’s Party, featuring Subterranean, Bath Salt Zombies, and Flow Poetry. Although these groups are generally in the jam category, the hard rock influence cannot be overstated. These guys know how to lay it down! Bring some ear plugs and prepare to rock out. Tickets are $10 advance, $15 at the door. Doors 5pm. Show 6pm.

Plenty of other New Year’s parties are happening downtown, of course. Reggae fans will be loving the party over at Trolley Stop with The Cliftones, one of Cincinnati’s premiere original rasta-inspired bands. Get funky with your bad self over at Blind Bob’s with Freakquency. Or head over to Oregon Express where you can mix music from the Linda Prevo Band with the OSU game on the big screens. That will be a win-win for a lot of folks out there!

I have got to give it up to Oscar’s Bar. They have completely changed formats this year, and went from cover bands to originals with full gusto! Their NYE party is no exception. Zane and The Sway are joined by Todd The Fox Trio, The Pullouts, Jojo Stella, and Echo Mecca for a New Years Eve to remember! Oscar’s is building a brand new, awesome stage for performances and this will be the unveiling.

Special treats have been planned, including a masquerade mask upon entry (supplies limited), blue champagne toast, and free pork & sauerkraut buffet at midnight. $15 Tickets for 9pm entry, which features 4 bands. $35 tickets include prime rib dinner and Todd the Fox Trio. Tickets available at Oscar’s 937-890-8655.

Jazz fans will be excited for the New Year’s celebration planned at the Blue Note Bistro. They have concocted a delightful evening which includes a 4 course dinner, dessert, bottle of wine, a champagne toast, and music from New York Jazz sensation, Amy London. Sounds fantastic! Tickets are $125 per person, or $225 per couple. 8:30pm – 12:30am.

In Yellow Springs, don’t miss your chance to party with Spanish Tony Sanchez at Peach’s Grill. No cover. This is a hometown band, that’s sure to get everyone dancing and in a celebratory mood! Music starts at 10pm. 21+

Happy New Year’s, and asalways, thank you for supporting live music!

Your Dayton Music Insider,

Libby Ballengee

Note to Readers: The information above is for December 30th-31st, 2016. If I don’t list a price, I’m not sure what the price is. Typically cover charges for local shows are $5. Please click the hyperlinks to find out more about the bands, venues and events, including start times, directions, and ticket availability. Check out the latest shows I’m promoting @theVenusChild. You can keep up with my adventures on Instagram here or follow me on Twitter @LibbyBallengee. Cheers!